Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has unveiled exciting updates to its Bee Network, set to transform public transport across the region. The most anticipated addition is the introduction of new annual tickets, which will enable passengers to enjoy unlimited travel on buses and trams for as little as £2.75 per day. This new multi-modal ticket is expected to roll out on March 23, providing significant savings and increased convenience for commuters.
The new ticket system is structured to offer unlimited travel across the bus and tram network, with daily costs depending on the selected Metrolink zones. Prices will range from £2.75 to £4.10 per day, depending on users’ travel needs. To make travel even easier, TfGM will allow customers to spread their payments either monthly or annually, without any hidden fees, assisted by local Credit Unions. This innovative pricing model promises to save customers approximately 15% compared to buying 13 separate 28-day tickets, effectively granting two months of free travel each year.
Mayor Andy Burnham emphasized the importance of these developments, stating, “We’re making huge strides toward making public transport cheaper, simpler to understand, and more convenient than ever before. We have delivered bus franchising on time and on budget, and with buses across the region now under our control, we’re fast approaching our big moment in March when we bring in tap-in, tap-out payments and capped daily fares across bus and tram.”
Besides the introduction of the annual ticket, passengers will also benefit from capped daily and weekly payments, ensuring they never pay more than the maximum rate across multiple journeys. For example, unlimited daily travel across all zones will be capped at £9.50, with off-peak options delivering additional discounts.
This new pricing strategy is part of the Bee Network’s overarching vision to create integrated and low-cost transport solutions across Greater Manchester. Earlier initiatives have already established the annual Bee Bus ticket, allowing unlimited travel on Bee Network buses for just £2.20 per day. These changes signal TfGM's commitment to improving affordability and accessibility within the public transport system.
Alongside the introduction of new ticket options, Mayor Burnham has outlined his ambitious plans to integratively link Greater Manchester's rail services with the tram and bus networks. During 2025, TfGM aims to implement this three-phase plan, which is expected to create coherent, seamless travel options for the citizens of Greater Manchester.
The integration plan will not only facilitate smoother transitions between different modes of transport but also improve overall passenger experience across the region. By fostering closer connections between rail, bus, and tram services, TfGM hopes to encourage more residents to use public transport rather than opting for personal vehicles, which could lead to reduced congestion and lower environmental impacts.
Other enhancements to the transport network are also on the horizon. Greater Manchester is currently working on reforms within the urban development sector, particularly concerning homes being constructed near transport hubs. A pending change will see developers automatically receive approval for projects close to these hubs, significantly speeding up the planning process.
Such measures are viewed as incentives to stimulate residential developments near transport interchanges, helping create vibrant communities where residents have easy access to public transport. This would allow Greater Manchester to maximize the potential of its public transport investments.
At the same time, the government introduced new regulations targeting offshore wind farm development, aiming to control underwater noise levels during construction. Such protocols highlight the importance of balancing infrastructure development with environmental preservation within the region.
The new ticketing options and integration plans position Greater Manchester at the forefront of innovative public transport solutions, showcasing the significance of local governance in addressing the needs of its communities. By continually striving for improvements, TfGM is ensuring exceptional value and convenience for daily commuters.
The upcoming initiatives are not merely aimed at enhancing transport but are rooted firmly within the greater goal of creating sustainable, interconnected communities across Greater Manchester. With the collaborative efforts evident from both local officials and community members, the next few months promise to usher exciting changes and improvements for public transport users.